Holiday lets can be extremely
rewarding. Where are the best places to buy a holiday let? What is the best way
to start your search? And what types of properties make the best holiday lets? There
is a lot to consider, so we asked our agents for their opinions.

“In Northumberland we are spoilt with the best of both, with
holiday lets near the coast and in the country. If you’re in the market for a
holiday let, speaking to local independent estate agents should be high on your
list. Also contact holiday letting companies who may have clients wanting to
sell.

“A pet friendly cottage or apartment on the coast would be
most likely to maximise occupancy. It’s also worth not following the crowd. The
majority of holiday properties here are aimed at families; consider appealing
to couples with a price point to match,” explains Nick.

“Given that Falmouth was
crowned the best place to live in the South West by The Sunday Times last year,
it is not surprising that we deal with purchasers keen to secure a second home
here on a daily basis. Historically, the bustling town of Newquay or
quaint St Ives on the North Coast would be the first ‘port of call’ for some.
More recently, those seeking an all year-round resort offering golden sandy
beaches and some of the finest sailing waters in the country have chosen
Falmouth. So what makes the perfect holiday home? It would appear that the
formula is relatively simple – a good location, water views and parking,” says
Natalie.

“West Wales
is the place to look for good value holiday let properties. Holiday property
owners and holiday home letting agencies suggested that Summer / Autumn 2016
was the best on record, with many at full occupancy well into November and over
Christmas.

“The great
beaches and nearby mountain scenery make Aberdyfi in Gwynedd a particular
favourite property but is sought after. Nearby Tywyn is equally attractive and
currently offers good value in all price ranges. Both are definitely worth
a look.

“Our advice
would be to think big and look for something with real quality. High incomes
can be earned from groups of families looking to share somewhere special for
their time away in the UK,” says Martin.

“We are very lucky to live and work in a county as lovely
as Dorset. Our office is in the Victorian town of Swanage, which is a popular family holiday location. It has award
winning soft sandy beaches, beautiful surrounding countryside and is well known
for being the gateway to the Jurassic Coast, England’s first world heritage
site. The area has many miles of footpaths and bridleways making it popular
with walkers and cyclists. Attractive country
cottages and properties with sea views close to the beach are always top of
list. The population of Swanage doubles in the summer months and with annual
fish, pirate, jazz, blues and folk festivals is a popular destination all year
round for a holiday let,” explains Kelly.

“The stunning
harbour town in the English Riviera has coastal views, a rural backdrop and a
micro-climate.Holidays
mean different things to different people. There is not a definitive perfect
holiday location or home. There are, however, a few things to think of
before embarking on a holiday home purchase.

“Firstly
look at what other people are doing. What’s working? How many bookings do
they have? What are the popular accommodation styles, number of bedrooms,
parking? And who is your target audience?

“Secondly,
perhaps more importantly, ask yourself, ‘Would I genuinely choose to stay
here? Is the location giving me access to the amenities or could I be
‘anywhere’? Is it comfortable, and well furnished?’

“Lastly, ask
yourself, “Why am I doing it? and what do I want to achieve out of this?”.

“Convenience
and comfort can often outweigh the wow factor of a view however, if you can get
all the ingredients then go for it,” says Mark.

“There are many
reasons why people decide to purchase a holiday home or investment property in
Cornwall, with the most obvious being that they will have their very own
holiday home that not only pays for itself but also generates an income.
Whether you live outside of Cornwall or in the county choosing a holiday let
over a long-term let is a better investment here.

“A holiday home
allows you much more flexibility with the property, including easier, more
frequent access to it than they might with long-term tenants. With several holiday
letting companies in the area, you know your property will be well marketed to
achieve its full letting potential and managed by local experts.

“At Marshalls
Hayle, we market several suitable properties, ranging from lodges on the
popular John Fowler holiday sites with prices starting from £34,950. Bungalows
at Riviere Towans are currently on the market at £295,000, and chalets at Gwithian
Towans at £475,000. Apartments in Carbis baycost around £267,500,and a harbour
side flat in St Ives is priced at £475,000. All offer sea views and easy access
to the beach,” explains Sandra.

“We asked one of
our owners for their thoughts on owning a holiday home. The owner has a lodge
on the Tolroy Holiday Village in Hayle. They bought the property four years ago
as a business and investment venture. They have done some updating to ensure
the property meets all the health and safety requirement and pac test, with
smoke alarms connected to the main buildings, also added laminate flooring and
generally ensured the accommodation is of a high standard. They have enjoyed
the interaction with guests. They do the cleaning themselves to maximise
profitability. They enjoy seeing visitors come back year after year. As owners
they have benefitted from the use of sites facilities and their children have
enjoyed the play park and swimming pool,” concludes Sandra.

“The pretty coastal town of Hythe in Kent has much to
offer the holiday let investor. From views across the English Channel to
France, an unspoilt seafront promenade, the famous Romney Hythe & Dymchurch
light railway running as far as the unique landscape of Dungeness. The town itself offers a
traditional high street with a wealth of independent shops and restaurants as
well as a wide variety of sporting options including tennis courts, sea
kayaking and a selection of local golf courses.

“The Royal Military
Canal winds gently through the town offering pleasant walks, cycle paths and
rowing boats for hire. The area is well-served for transport links with London
only 50 minutes away by high speed train and rail access to mainland Europe
available via the nearby Eurotunnel terminal or by ferry from the port of
Dover,” concludes John.